Daylight Saving Time: 5 Things to do With That Extra Hour of Evening Sunlight

This winter has seemed to drag on foooorrreeevvveerrr, especially here in New York. After a dozen snowstorms, bone-chilling temps, and sunsets at 4:30, I am so so ready for spring.

Which is why Daylight Saving Time on March 9 is a warm welcome. Even though we lose an hour of sleep when we set our clocks ahead an hour, I don't even care because I'm sick of it being dark by the time I leave work.

So, what is there to do with that extra hour of sunlight in the evening? Save that Netflix marathon for after the sun sets, and enjoy the extra hour of daylight. Whether the climate in your city is going to warm up a bit or is still chilly, there's a lot you can do with that extra hour. Get inspired by some of these ideas, and #MakeToday sunny!

1. Go for an Evening Walk

Image via @kortneeg

This is a no-brainer when it comes to enjoying spring. Even if the weather hasn't quite hit the desired 60 or 70-degree temps, layer up and go for a stroll around your neighborhood. You may see things you didn't notice during the dark, cold winter. "Oh look, that tree is blooming!" "Is that a new coffee shop down the street?" "When did our neighbors stop wearing pants?" etc.

2. Meditate or do Outdoor Yoga

Image via @fitgirls23

I'm not one for sitting still (and I prefer to eat pretzels rather than twist my body into one), but some people swear by meditation and/or yoga, and more power to them. What better way to shut off the mental stresses from the day with with some outdoor relaxation? Take a few minutes to meditate in the sunshine, or do a few yoga poses in the extra sunshine.

3. Outdoor Happy Hour

Image via @vivi_hi

My favorite part of the spring and summer months is eating outside. Something about sunshine and sidewalk people watching always makes my french fries and cocktails taste better. Bring your after-work drinks outside this time, and enjoy the last couple hours or so of sunlight. Even if it's chilly, being under a heat lamp might almost make it feel like it's officially summer.

4. Run Longer Errands

If you're like me and have to run all of your errands on foot (or public transportation), you're familiar with trying to get everything done before the sun sets. It's just so depressing (and sometimes a little unsafe) to be walking around by yourself at night. So go on that longer shopping trip, or to that tailor across town you've been meaning to visit. You have time!

5. Finish that Spray Paint Project

Doing any kind of DIY project in the dark doesn't yield the best results. Take advantage of that extra hour to spray paint those vases you've been dreaming about painting all winter. You know, when it was too dark and cold to do anything other than rearrange your closet (again).

What are you planning on doing with that extra hour of sun? Let us know in the comments below, or send us a tweet or Instagram with the hashtag #MakeToday so we can see!

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